The Best Hotels to Book Near Port Tampa Bay, Florida

Travel back in time – in style. Le Méridien Tampa started life as a federal courthouse in 1905, and today, it’s a 130-room boutique hotel, quirkily reimagined with a signature style that’s cozy and eclectic. Original features include marble hallways and original oak doors; an old judge’s desk has been repurposed as the concierge station. Rooms are business smart, carpeted and calm. Try the on-site Bizou Brasserie, specializing in French-inspired cuisine, and get your workout in at the gym or outdoor pool.

Want to be in the thick of Tampa’s nightlife action? This hip hotel is the place to base yourself. Overlooking the Hillsborough River, it’s a funky proposition, with 130 loft-style rooms with big windows, modern designer furniture and complimentary Bliss products in gleaming white bathrooms. Aimed at an energetic younger crowd, it pulls out the stops with head-turning contemporary art on the walls and lots of mingling at the rooftop W XYZ bar and pool. It also has a lean, mean 24-hour gym.

Eyes widen upon glimpsing the location of this temple to relaxation – it’s right on the waterfront, with the breeze-ruffled blue views Instagram no-brainers. The hotel wins travel-weary hearts with its sparkling outdoor pool, its mighty lobby dotted with quirky pieces of art and its food. At the Blue Harbour restaurant, it’s tricky to choose between the black grouper and Florida bouillabaisse, so order both. Rooms and suites in plain oatmeal and chocolate tones mean a night of deep sleep. During the day, visit the Florida Aquarium, Sparkman Wharf, Amalie Arena and Tampa Riverwalk.

Just off I-4, within walking distance of Centro Ybor and Ybor City, this modern hotel may seem a little out of place in the historic district, but the 96-room resort respects tradition with its inoffensive, neutral-colored rooms and much-appreciated facilities. It has an outdoor pool, a whirlpool and a convenient shuttle bus that will drop you off at the Florida Aquarium, Tampa Museum of Art or Busch Gardens. Room rates include breakfast, either in your room or at the Garden Grille and Bar (insist on the signature waffles).

Here’s a major-brand, big-city hotel with a lot of character – you’ll sense as much the moment you enter its public areas, infused with Latin spirit and adorned with extravagant potted ferns and palm motifs on surfaces. The 230 cozy hideaways go for a nautical ambience, with blue carpets and foam-white walls, plus dashes of tropical-tan wood here and there. The Corazon Bar and Restaurant salutes Tampa’s Latin heritage in dishes such as crispy yucca with avocado crema. Head here when you’re famished from swimming lengths in the rooftop heated pool.

Given its waterside setting, you’d expect picture-perfect views from your room – and the Tampa Marriott Water Street delivers. It’s the same fabulous outlook from the rooftop pool and bar, splashed with Florida sunshine. Highlights? Arguably the dining; there’s sophisticated seafood at Anchor and Brine and waistband-expanding American breakfasts at Café Waterside. The 35 Stay Well rooms are a major draw, with their Nasa-worthy air-purification systems, high-tech circadian lighting features and vitamin C shower infusers for the irredeemably health conscious.

If you’re a foodie, look no further – the clue’s in the name at the Epicurean Hotel, where the mission statement is to make your day delicious. There are many opportunities to indulge, including at the trendy Lobby Bar, perfect for a glass of wine and sociable Sunday brunch. Alternatively, admire the scenery on the chic rooftop bar over a handcrafted cocktail. Even the rooms are dedicated to gourmet indulgence – each has an artisan pantry containing a tailored-for-you range of premium liquors, local craft beers and a selection of wines. Ask about visiting the hotel theater; food-related events range from oyster samplings and wine tastings to cooking classes led by celebrity chefs.